Linda Skeens is another one of our One Day in San Diego ambassadors. She is an award winning filmmaker and co-founder of Balestra Entertainment. Born and raised in San Diego, Linda brings a great perspective to our project. We are so excited to have her on board our team!

Who are you and what is your profession?

San Diego producer, director, writer, cinematographer, editor, and co-founder of Balestra Entertainment. My notable local clients include U-T San Diego, UC San Diego, King's Hawaiian, Ilovemusubi.com, Nubry.com, Dîner en Blanc, and I do...Weddings! I have a B.A. in media with an emphasis on cinema, and a minor in economics from the University of California, San Diego.

Can you tell us a little about your background and upbringing?

San Diego local, originally from the dusty horse-trailed portion of South Bay. My business-savvy mother is a California raised redwood; raven haired and half-mexican, half-spaniard. My caucasian father hails from the hills of Kentucky, and owned a San Diego pest control company for 25 years. His business closed their doors when he was diagnosed with a malignant tumor in his throat. I now live in City Heights with my filmmaker partner, Patrick Russell Burton, and our two dogs Keith and Dandelion.

What inspired you to become a filmmaker?

As a child I had trouble falling asleep, making friends, or being out in the sun for too long. The rest is history.

Who or what do you most admire?

My heart is always in complete admiration of my partner Patrick Russell Burton. His confidence, constant creativity, willingness to learn and grow, and his ability to lead and inspire others are just a few reasons that he's my favorite person in the world.

What do you love about San Diego?

The usual perks: the weather, the food, the people, the arts, the animals, the nature.

What do you fear most for San Diego?

LA smog will be pushed down by NorCal winds, leaving us to choke on their murky cancer-causing crappy air.

What do you hope for San Diego in the next 20 years?

I hope that the standard of living will rise for the lower class, and that education, healthcare, and shelter are readily available for everybody.